Middle Schoolers Embrace Diplomacy At Model UN

It’s nearly 7 pm, and while most middle schoolers have long since headed home, 30 determined students are deep in discussions, representing more than 20 countries. This is Model United Nations (MUN), a club run by students for students—where young minds tackle complex global issues.

For many of these students, in grades 6-8, it’s the very first time they’re trying MUN, and interest has been strong. Model United Nations simulates the work of the real UN, with students acting as delegates to debate global issues and craft solutions. With such high participation, the group has been split into two parts, and during this internal conference, the rooms are full of both excitement and apprehension. 

“It’s really about allowing students to look at global issues, think creatively in different settings, and consider how we could make the world a better place within realistic constraints,” shares Beverly Giacobbe Larson, the faculty advisor of Middle School MUN, along with teachers Cait Redmond and Juan Jose Sanz Del Alamo. “The process is demanding, involving thorough research, crafting compelling opening speeches, meticulously drafting resolution clauses, building alliances, and engaging in robust debates,” adds Mr. Sanz Del Alamo.

In addition to this process, students are challenged to consider issues that you may not typically find 12-year-olds thinking about. 

“This delegate is deeply concerned about the Rohingya refugees who have fled their homes due to extreme violence and persecution,” begins grade 6 Myanmar delegate, Anh-Tu, in his opening speech. “To tackle this problem, we must provide shelter, safe water, food, and sanitation.”

Grade 7 student Jayde builds on this idea: “I’m writing a clause to give countries a motive for supporting refugees financially. There would be mutual benefits for countries agreeing to this, for example, reduced tariffs or the promise to help them if they had refugees.”

During conferences, the students use Points of Information (POIs) and amendments, culminating in a formal vote on proposed resolutions. Mr. Sanz Del Alamo elaborates, “It’s been fascinating to observe their dedication and skill firsthand, particularly during last semester’s conference at ISHCMC and our recent trip to Hanoi for MUN UNIS.”

A Conference Designed by Students, for Students

Mentored by SSIS High School MUN students, Minh, Roy, and Willy, the preparations for the internal conference began weeks ago. These experienced students take responsibility for all the teaching and for guiding their young peers through everything from drafting resolutions to the proper decorum and attire expected of a MUN delegate. “At a real conference, you’ll be turned away if you show up in anything other than business attire,” they're told at one of the prep sessions. 

"It's been wonderful to observe the collaboration between our high school and middle school students. Roy, Minh, and Willy have been an inspiration with their knowledge and experience of the Model United Nations preparation process. This peer relationship is so powerful in terms of mentorship, but equally important is the example of leadership it models to our younger students," says Ms. Redmond. "Moreover, MUN serves as a practical extension of our Social Studies learning. It requires in-depth research on global issues and allows students to apply concepts learned in history, geography, economics, and political science to real-world scenarios," she continues, highlighting the many subjects that MUN touches upon.

Overcoming Fears and Finding Confidence

As the session progresses, each of the 30 delegates steps up to introduce their country, delivering an opening statement that represents their assigned country’s position. It requires courage, particularly for grade 6 students, who must articulate their stance with confidence against older, more experienced delegates. “I had students emailing me the day of the internal conference saying that they didn’t think they could do it—but they did. And I’m so proud of them for facing their fears. Just imagine the growth that happens through a process like this,” says Ms. Larson.

Beyond debating and resolution writing, MUN also cultivates invaluable skills like research, negotiation, public speaking, and, most importantly, empathy. It teaches students to see beyond their own perspectives, to consider different viewpoints, and to work toward solutions that benefit a global community.

Looking Ahead: Next Steps in Their MUN Journey

For these budding diplomats, the learning doesn’t stop here. They have been invited to participate in the High School MUN conference on March 29-30, where they will take their newfound skills to the next level. Additional opportunities are also available this spring, both locally and in Taiwan. If their courage and passion at the internal conference are any indication, these students are more than ready.

By stepping into the shoes of global decision-makers, students are preparing not only to navigate the complexities of the world but to contribute meaningfully to its future. These experiences develop precisely the kind of global awareness, critical thinking, and leadership skills that will serve them well now, in high school, and throughout their lives.